We turned to Kristin McGrath, a shopping trend expert at RetailMeNot for tips, tricks and insights into holiday spending, so you can shop like a pro. What seasonal trends can we expect? Is Black Friday still the best time to find a deal? And what items are at the top of consumers’ lists this holiday season? She answers them below! Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
How will this holiday shopping season differ from years past?
This season is going to resemble last season, with longer Black Friday sales that are a few weeks long, as well as pulsed Black Friday events, which is the approach Walmart is taking this year. This is a departure from the tradition of Black Friday being a one or two-day sale. Even before the pandemic, retailers have been lengthening their Black Friday events, but the past few years have really accelerated that evolution.
What should buyers know about shipping delays/supply chain issues? How can they better prepare?
Consumers might be focused on the delays of getting their items shipped to their doorsteps. But retailers are facing supply chain and delivery challenges that are making it difficult to restock their shelves and warehouses at a time of year when items are selling quickly. So, even if shoppers think they’re shopping “early enough” to account for shipping, they might find that the item they want is out of stock until after the holidays. So, if there’s a must-have on your list, and it’s on sale, buy it now. The price might get better for Black Friday, but the supply behind that deal will likely be very small this year.
Is Black Friday still the best time to shop and find a deal? Or should people wait for Cyber Monday?
These days, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have melded into Cyber Weekend. The best tactic is to start shopping when retailers start kicking off their Black Friday sales and, if something you want sells out, try again on Cyber Monday. Or use Cyber Monday as a chance for self-gifting or flexible deal-hunting after you’ve crossed off the priority items on your list. This is not the year to wait for Cyber Monday.
What kind of 2022 deals should people wait for Cyber Monday to grab?
This year, consider Cyber Monday the last chance, rather than something to wait for. Historically, we’ve seen retailers practically re-run their Black Friday deals on Cyber Monday. Only rarely have we seen a price on a popular product get significantly better on Cyber Monday. When Cyber Monday first started, it was the tech/online counterpoint to Black Friday, but, these days, it’s one long weekend of deals.
Do you have any insight into the best Black Friday deals this year?
As far as official Black Friday deals go, as in deals offered Black Friday or Thanksgiving week, many retailers have dropped their ads or at least given a preview of deals online. Sam’s Club is offering Instant Savings deals leading up to Thanksgiving Weekend, while Walmart is offering a low-priced 55-inch TV ($298) and a Black Friday Deal on AirPods ($79).
Best Black Friday 2022 Deals
Best Black Friday TV Deals
Element 58" 4K UHD Roku TV, Originally $499.99, Now $199.99 at Target
Vizio 70" Class V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV, Originally $598, Now $448 at Walmart
Upgrade movie night or your gaming experience with the Vizio Class V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV. 4K Ultra HD means four times the resolution of 1080p, and Dolby Vision means more impressive brightness, contrast and color. Vizio 70" Class V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV, Originally $598, Now $448 at Walmart
Sony 65-Inch Bravia 4K LED Google TV, Originally $1,299.99, Now $999.99 at Best Buy
Best Black Friday Laptop Sales
HP Pavilion 14" Touchscreen Laptop, Originally $829.99, Now $499.99 at Best Buy
The touchscreen HP Pavilion can function as both a laptop and tablet with the ability to rotate 360 degrees. It was designed with post-consumer recycled plastic and has 8GB memory and Intel Core i5. HP Pavilion 14" Touchscreen Laptop, $499.99, Best Buy
Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ 12.3" Touchscreen, Originally $929.99, Now $599.99 at Best Buy
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ is over $300 off at Best Buy this year. It’s a good option for those constantly on Zoom calls, with front and rear-facing HD cameras, Studio Mics for clear video, and the ability to adjust the Kickstand. also with Intel Core i3, 8GB memory and 128GB SSD. Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ 12.3" Touchscreen, $599.99, Best Buy
Samsung Chromebook 4 11.6", Originally $299.99, Now $139.47 at Walmart
With “military-grade durability” and built-in virus protection, this Samsung Chromebook is ideal for younger first-time laptop owners. You can also use your voice to ask Google Assistant to update your calendar, make notes or check the news. Samsung Chromebook 4 11.6", $139.47, Walmart
Asus ZenBook Duo 14 14" Touchscreen Notebook, Originally $1,079.15, Now $949.99 at Walmart
The ZenBook Duo 14 has a 14" touchscreen and a tilting design with two displays for the ultimate viewing experience. You can also enjoy Intel Core i5 2.50 GHz processor and 8GB memory. Asus ZenBook Duo 14 14" Touchscreen Notebook, Originally $1,079.15, Now $949.99 at Walmart
Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3 15.6" FHD Laptop, Originally $899.99, Now $549.99 at Best Buy
Made with gamers in mind, this laptop ..a Windows 11 operating system, 15.6" full HD screen, AMD Ryzen 5 processor, white backlit keyboard, built-in webcam with privacy shutter and a high-performance thermal system to avoid overheating. Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3 15.6" FHD Laptop, Originally $899.99, Now $549.99 at Best Buy
Best Echo Deals for Black Friday
Best Kitchen Appliance Deals
From the best Black Friday KitchenAid deals to big savings on air fryers, here are the best deals on kitchen appliances.
KitchenAid Deluxe 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, Originally $399.99, Now $299.99 at KitchenAid
Even before the banana bread baking fest of the COVID-19 pandemic, KitchenAid stand mixers have always been a hot ticket item during Black Friday. The Deluxe stand mixer has 10 speeds and comes with a 4.5 quart stainless steel bowl, flat beater, dough hook and metal whip. Choose between Silver and a gorgeous Mineral Water Blue. KitchenAid Deluxe 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $299.99 at KitchenAid
Samsung Counter Depth 4-Door French Door Refrigerator, Originally $3,499, Now $2,198 at Home Depot
This high-end refrigerator packs a powerful punch thanks to premium features like a built-in pitcher that automatically refills with filtered water, high efficiency LED lighting, a UV deodorizing filter and triple cooling technology temperature regulation system. Samsung Counter Depth 4-Door French Door Smart Refrigerator, $2,198, Home Depot
Best Clothing Sales
These are the best Black Friday sales at Lululemon, Nordstrom and more. It’s the perfect time to snag those bike shorts and UGG boots you’ve had in your cart.
Karl Lagerfeld Paris Belted Coat, Originally $325, Now $189.90 at Nordstrom
This chic coat is one of the best Nordstrom Black Friday deals and comes in four colors: Make a statement in Berry or Spearmint, or keep it classic in Black or Camel. Karl Lagerfeld Paris Belted Wool Blend Patch Pocket Coat, $189.90, Nordstrom
Free People Milo Tunic Sweater, Originally $148, Now $88.80 at Nordstrom
This Free People favorite has a slouchy silhouette making it a cute and comfy layering piece for winter. The soft fabric is “like your favorite blanket,” writes on reviewer. Free People Milo Tunic Sweater, $88.80, Nordstrom
Women’s Levi’s 311 Shaping Skinny Jeans, Originally $69.50, Now $48.65 at Kohl’s
Featuring a slimming design and five pockets, you won’t want to miss out on snagging a pair of these sustainable skinny jeans in sizes 24-34 and a wide array of color options. Women’s Levi’s 311 Shaping Skinny Jeans, $48.65, Kohl’s
Wunder Train High-Rise Short, Originally $74, Now $49 at Lululemon
You can snag these breathable bike shorts, which feature a hidden drawstring and pocket in the waistband, in an array of vibrant hues and dynamic prints in sizes 0-20. Wunder Train High-Rise Short, $49, Lululemon
UGG Classic Suede Mini Boot, Originally $160, Now $129.99 at Nordstrom Rack
These UGG Mini Boots are shorter than the Classic Short style, with a 5" shaft height (compared to an 8" shaft height in the Classic Short). They have the same cozy shearling trim you love. UGG Classic Suede Mini Double Zip Genuine Shearling Boot, $129.99, Nordstrom Rack
Airpuff Quilted Packable Puffer Jacket, originally $158, Now $129.99 at Madewell
This top-rated puffer jacket is packable, so you can take it on all your holiday travels. It’s also made of recycled materials so you can feel good about investing in this winter staple. Madewell Airpuff Quilted Packable Puffer Jacket, $129.99, Madewell
Brooklyn Heights Pant, Originally $99, Now $39.99 at Athleta
These versatile pants are on sale in on-trend Barbiecore purple-pink and a more neutral Tapestry Gold. Wear them with athleisurewear, blazers or anything, really. Athleta Brooklyn Heights Pant, $39.99, Athleta
Best Handbag Sales for Black Friday
MICHAEL Michael Kors Pearl Flap Crossbody, Originally $298, Now $119.20 at Macy’s
This cute crossbody is just the right size for toting around town. It has a removable, adjustable strap and interior zip and slip pockets for safely storing items. MICHAEL Michael Kors Pearl Flap Crossbody, $119.20, Macy’s
Coach Plaid Print Highline Tote with C Dangle, Originally $250, Now $175 at Macy’s
This Black Friday deal is a great gift for mom, a sister or you! This tote is one of the best deals on Coach handbags right now. Choose between a festive red or black plaid print. Coach Plaid Print Highline Tote with C Dangle, Originally $250, Now $175 at Macy’s
Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote, Originally $195, Now $139.29 at Nordstrom
The Nordstrom-exclusive is made with a water-resistant nylon that’s especially useful when traveling. It’s currently on sale in four different colors, all with a textured leather trim. Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote, Originally $195, Now $139.29 at Nordstrom
Rebecca Minkoff Darren Small Leather Crossbody Bag, Originally $198, Now $117.97 at Nordstrom Rack
This crossbody handbag has cute details and studs, ties and turn-lock closure—plus a zipper, so your belongings are extra secure. Rebecca Minkoff Darren Small Leather Crossbody Bag, Originally $198, Now $117.97 at Nordstrom Rack
Best Tumbler Deals
YETI Rambler 10-oz Lowball with Magslider Lid, Originally $20, Now $15 at YETI
The YETI Rambler Lowball holds 10 ounces of coffee or your favorite campfire cocktail and keeps it hot or cool thanks to double-wall vacuum insulation. It comes with a MagSlider Lid that’s dishwasher safe. YETI Rambler 10-oz Lowball with Magslider Lid, $15, YETI
Hydro Flask 32-oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Flex Cap, Originally $44.95, Now $17.98 at SunnySports
Stay hydrated with the stainless steel Hydro Flask 32-oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle. It’s currently 60% off in five different colors at SunnySports. Hydro Flask 32-oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Flex Cap, $17.98, SunnySports
Hydro Flask 24-oz Mug in Cobalt, Originally $32.95, Now $24.71 at Hydro Flask
This Hydro Flask Mug with a closeable lid in the shade Cobalt is currently on sale. It holds 24 ounces of coffee, tea or your other favorite beverage and keeps it hot (or cold, if that’s what you want) for hours. Hydro Flask 24-oz Mug in Cobalt, $24.71, Hydro Flask
Hydro Flask 12-oz Insulated Coffee Mug, Originally $24.95, Now $9.98 at SunnySports
Snag the Hydro Flask 12-oz Coffee Mug for the low price of $9.98 at SunnySports while you can! Choose between Stone, Black, Rain or Eggplant colors. The durable coffee mug comes with an insulated press-in lid that resists splashes. Hydro Flask 12-oz Insulated Coffee Mug, $9.98, SunnySports
Camelbak Horizon 20-oz Insulated Tumbler in Larkspur, Originally $25, Now $9.97 at SunnySports
This insulated Camelbak tumbler features a non-slip silicone bae and a powdercoat finish that makes it dishwasher safe. The a bright turquoise Larkspur shade will have you dreaming of your next beach our lakeside vacation. Camelbak Horizon 20-oz Insulated Tumbler in Larkspur, Originally $25, Now $9.97 at SunnySports
More Black Friday Steals and Deals
Nolah Evolution 15" Mattress, Originally $2,299, Now $1,599 at Nolah
This is one of the best times of year to get a new mattress for a great deal. Nolah is offering up to $700 off mattresses with two free pillows for Black Friday, plus up to $400 off adjustable bases, up to $30 off mattress protectors and more. The Evolution Hybrid 15" is one of the most popular options and was awarded the Good Housekeeping Best Mattress of 2022. Nolah Evolution 15" Mattress, $1,599, Nolah
Nolah Adjustable Base with Massage (Queen), Originally $1,099, Now $949 at Nolah
This mattress base is what dreams are made of. Adjust the head and foot incline through voice controls or a wireless remote and enjoy the full-body massage motors. It also has under-bed lighting and convenient USB charging ports. Nolah Adjustable Base with Massage (Queen), $949, Nolah
Google Nest Learning Thermostat, Originally $249.99, Now $179 at Kohl’s
With a large, crisp display, you can easily control your home’s temperature from your phone, tablet, smart speakers, or computer with this intuitive smart thermostat. Google Nest Learning Thermostat, $179, Kohl’s
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro Wireless Earbuds, Originally $199.99, Now $119.99 at Best Buy
Available in multiple colors with a 1-year warranty from both Best Buy, these water-resistant earbuds offer touch music control and a battery life of 5-8 hours, depending on how long you’ve enabled its convenient active noise canceling feature. Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro Wireless Earbuds, $119.99, Best Buy
Samsung High-Efficiency Front Load Washing Machine, Originally $999, Now $648 at Home Depot
We all know the best time to get anything done is when your kids are asleep, but is your laundry getting backed up because your washing machine keeps waking them up at night? The Samsung High-Efficiency Front Loading Washing Machine just might be the answer to your prayers thanks to its Vibration Reduction Technology+. In addition to coming in three sleek colors, this workhorse of a washing machine boasts a larger drum—so you can do fewer loads in the long run—and features Self Clean+ to eliminate 99% of bacteria. You can also pick up the matching dryer for the same price and save an additional $50 with Home Depot’s Buy More Save More promotion when you buy both. Samsung High-Efficiency Front Load Washer with Self-Clean+, $648, Home Depot
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With reporting by Kaitlin Mahar.
